Festive Family Breaks in Cork: Top 5 Christmas Experiences for Magical Memories
There is nothing quite like Christmas in Cork. The city comes alive with twinkling lights, laughter, and festive cheer and there is no better time to escape for a family break at the Cork International Hotel, just minutes from the airport and only a short drive from the best Christmas attractions in Cork.
This festive season, we invite families to slow down, reconnect, and make magical memories with our Family Date Night package which is designed especially for parents and children to enjoy some quality time together.
Stay, Dine & Play – Family Date Night at the Cork International Hotel
Our Family Date Night package is the perfect way to wrap up the year with some sparkle. Enjoy an overnight stay in one of our spacious family rooms, a delicious two-course dinner in The New Yorker Restaurant, and a movie in our private in-house cinema.
From festive films to hot chocolate and laughter, this is what family time at Christmas is all about.
What’s Included:
- Overnight stay for the family
- Two-course evening meal in The New Yorker Restaurant
- Access to the private cinema with festive family movies
- Full Irish breakfast the next morning
- Complimentary parking and Wi-Fi
Top 5 Family Festive Attractions in Cork
We’ve rounded up the best family-friendly Christmas experiences near the Cork International Hotel; all within easy reach for a truly magical festive break.
1. Santa’s Village at Leahy’s Open Farm
Dungourney, Midleton
Visit Santa at Leahy’s Open Farm →
A family favourite and one of Cork’s most loved Christmas experiences, Santa’s Village at Leahy’s Open Farm is bursting with festive fun. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, explore the real-life elf village, enjoy the toboggan rides, and see the twinkling Christmas lights across the farm.
Tip: Book our Leahy’s Santa Experience Package directly through the Cork International Hotel website for the perfect family adventure.
2. Ice Skating Cork at Alpine Skate Trail
Centre Park Road
A must-do festive activity for all ages. Glide (or giggle!) your way across the ice at Ireland’s longest-running ice rink. With family-friendly sessions, penguin skating aids for little ones, and festive music, this is an ideal winter outing just a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
3. Corkmas Christmas Market & Santa Experience
Emmet Place, Cork City
Discover A Cork Christmas Celebration →
The city centre transforms into a festive wonderland with the return of the Corkmas Christmas Market. Stroll through wooden chalets filled with artisan gifts, festive treats, and glowing lights; and don’t miss a visit to Santa’s Grotto at Emmet Place. A Christmas market and the Santa Experience will take place Thursday to Sunday on Emmett Place from the end of November to December 22. Solas, Corkmas’ ethereal interactive light installation, will be located elsewhere in the city encouraging residents and visitors to wander around the city and soak up the atmosphere.
4. Santa’s Magical Market at The Marina Market
Centre Park Road, Cork
See What’s On →
Cork’s Marina Market is adding extra sparkle this season with Santa’s Magical Market and The Big Freeze. Expect festive music, themed photo spots, and plenty of local food stalls serving seasonal delights. It’s a family day out with something for everyone, from gourmet hot chocolate to live entertainment.
5. Christmas Panto at The Cork Opera House or Everyman Theatre
Cork City Centre
There’s nothing more Christmassy than a good old-fashioned panto! This year, both the Cork Opera House and The Everyman Theatre promise laughter, songs, and a sprinkle of festive magic. Whether it’s Cinderella or Aladdin, the panto is guaranteed to delight both kids and grown-ups alike.
Tip: Make a night of it and enjoy dinner at The New Yorker before heading into the city for the show.
A Magical Christmas Awaits
From Santa visits to ice skating and sparkling city lights, Cork offers endless festive fun for families. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a pre-Christmas treat, the Cork International Hotel is your home for the holidays; where comfort, warmth, and family time come first.
Book your Family Date Night Package today and let the festive magic begin Here
Or contact our Reservations Team on tel:+353214549800